Second Chance Month 2026: America's Got Untapped Talent

Every year, millions of skilled, qualified people are ready to work, but outdated records block them from jobs they are qualified to do. That’s why, this Second Chance Month, we’re focusing on breaking down those barriers with our America’s Got Untapped Talent campaign.

In partnership with the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ), we’re calling on employers to show their support for second chances by adding their logo to this campaign and sending a powerful message of what’s possible when we focus on people, not past records.

‍When qualified people are blocked from work, businesses lose talent. Communities lose economic participation. The broader economy absorbs the cost. Second chance policies, like Clean Slate, offer a better path forward. By automating the record sealing process, Clean Slate reduces administrative burden and ensures that people who have earned relief actually receive it — expanding the workforce for employers looking for talented people to join their teams.

Learn more about this effort, add your company to the list of employers, download our social media toolkit, and hear stories from entrepreneurs, licensed professionals, and business leaders on our America’s Got Untapped Talent page.

Why Should Employers Support Fair Chances?

By championing second chance policies, employers help shift the narrative around talent and opportunity. When businesses lead, communities follow. Here are some reasons businesses are already supporting this effort:

“Small businesses today are struggling to hire and retain a ready workforce, so policy solutions that would increase the available supply of labor are much needed to bolster America's small business ecosystem. Given the current labor landscape, it's no surprise that Small Business Majority's research found 84% of small business owners agree that Clean Slate policies would help unlock a pool of job applicants that deserve a second chance, while also benefiting small businesses in their efforts to hire and recruit employees.” — Awesta Sarkash, VP, State Policy & Advocacy, Small Business Majority

“For over 30 years, Televerde has seen what’s possible when businesses recognize potential instead of focusing on a past mistake. When people are given the opportunity to work, build skills, and contribute, companies and communities grow stronger. We’re proud to support the work of RBIJ and the Clean Slate Initiative to help more employers open the door to second chances.” — Michelle Cirocco, Chief Social Responsibility Officer, Televerde

“At Flagger Force, we are committed to building a workplace where opportunities are driven by a person's ability and potential, rather than their past. By removing hiring barriers for people impacted by the justice system, we strengthen our workforce with a dedicated group of individuals who are driven to work hard and grow both personally and professionally. Offering these second chances not only expands our talent pool with people who are ready to deliver their best, but it also builds a stronger, more reliable team that reflects the communities we serve.” — Mike Doner, President and CEO, Flagger Force

Second Chance Month is also a time to celebrate the strength of the Clean Slate effort happening nationwide. Our progress is made possible because of people like you — who show up, speak out, and stay committed to building a more inclusive economy. Together, we are creating pathways to stability, dignity, and growth for people who deserve to be seen for who they are today. 

We invite you to add your voice to this campaign and stand with us in recognizing America’s Untapped Talent. Please share the campaign with your friends, employers, and networks, and let’s rally this month to grow a wide range of support from second chance employers.